Engineering students at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) are among the major beneficiaries of an academic mentorship programme to grow the pool of engineers in the country.
The Academic Mentorship Programme came to fruition with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University’s Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment (FEBE), the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), and the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (GDID) on Monday, 6 October 2014.
As part of the programme, 25 students will receive skills training, technical tutors, mentoring, coaching and studying techniques in preparation for candidacy with professional councils to ensure future sustainability in the engineering sector. In addition, they’ll be appointed directly onto the Departmental Graduate Trainee Programme upon completion of their tertiary qualifications.
Speaking at the inaugural event, Dr Andre Van Zyl from UJ’s Academic Development Centre stressed the importance of successful teaching and learning as a product of common engagement and mutual respect between parties involved. “This MoU is an indication that UJ is committed to the industry. It is encouraging to see partnerships forge the nation’s development as this will translate our advances into gains for the country,” said Dr van Zyl.
Said Dr van Zyl: “This programme offers UJ students the opportunity to engage in meaningful work by consolidating industry with teaching and learning for future development. This is a key part for the deeper understanding of engineering concepts and therefor vital for the long terms success of students.”
